WCMC’s Clinical Associate Professor George Albert and nurse Annita who are offering free men’s health checks in conjunction with Healthier Illawarra Men. Photo: Supplied.
Men in the Illawarra who tend to “put off” health checks now have one less excuse, with a new monthly men’s focused clinic removing the barriers that often stop them from seeking medical help.
Designed to make check-ups easier, quicker and more approachable, the initiative offers free, bulk-billed 45-minute health assessments led by Wollongong Campus Medical Centre in partnership with Healthier Illawarra Men.
It comes after growing demand for health support for Illawarra men and the success of men’s screenings at last month’s International Men’s Day lunch, where dozens of men lined up for on-the-spot heart, diabetes and wellbeing screenings.
Available on the second Wednesday of every month from next month, men will be able to book a 45-minute appointment — 15 minutes with a nurse and 30 minutes with Wollongong Campus Medical Centre’s (WCMC) Clinical Associate Professor George Albert.
It will be focused on early detection, prevention and personalised health advice, with checks including heart health assessment, diabetes risk check, prostate screening, mental health review, skin check, and lifestyle, nutrition and wellbeing support.
Associate Professor Albert said the initiative was designed to remove barriers for men who often delayed or avoided seeking medical help.
“What we saw at the HIM (Healthier Illawarra Men) lunch was a clear reminder that local men want to take control of their health — they just need the right environment and the right invitation,” he said.
“Too many men don’t have a regular GP or put off important check-ups.
“These monthly clinics are about making it easier, more approachable, and more normal for men to get the care they need.”
Associate Professor Albert said he wanted to encourage other GP practices across the Illawarra to consider similar initiatives to boost prevention and early detection.
“If every medical practice offered even one day a month like this, the impact on early detection and long-term health outcomes for men would be enormous,” he said.
Healthier Illawarra Men chair Mark Sleigh said he applauded the leadership shown by WCMC and Associate Professor Albert.
“This is exactly the kind of proactive, community-driven solution we need,” Mr Sleigh said.
“The men of our region face real and serious health challenges.
“WCMC is stepping up in a way that is practical, compassionate and genuinely lifesaving. We hope other medical centres follow their example.”
Mr Sleigh said HIM would work with partners and stakeholders across the region to promote the initiative widely and ensure men knew the service was available.
Men can book an appointment by calling 4216 5590 or via Hotdoc by selecting ‘Men’s Health Check’. Those unable to find a suitable time, can call the reception team who can look for alternative dates.
Wollongong Campus Medical Centre is located at 11 Northfields, Ave, Keiraville.
